Lower Unit Leaking

[AaronG]

Last season, my 1974 Evinrude 115 had milky oil in the lower unit near the end of the season. I changed the oil, but it became milky again after 5 or so hours of use. Since I couldn't find a reciept from the previous owner having it resealed, I figured it was due. I also removed the prop (to have it straighted) and found 2 yards or fishing line tangled up near the prop seal. Anyway, last week, I finally picked up the lower unit from the shop that re-sealed it and put a new waterpump on it, and as I was leaving, he said not to lay it on its side in the trunk of my car. He said if I do, oil could leak out. Well, I did lay it on its side, and a little oil ( a few cc's.) did leak out of a small hole near the water pickup. Is that normal? How can it keep water out if oil can leak out when its laying on its side.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Lower Unit Leaking

That's the stangest thing I've ever heard. It mussn't leak sideways, upside down, or in any position. Sometimes the guy at the desk is a little lax on such knowledge. Sometimes the mechanics get that job, but it's more of a clerical job and almost a waste of a good mechnaic. Or he was nervous about a failed reseal job. Let the gearcase get cold outside. Crack the vent plug open to relieve any pressure, then re-tighten and let it warm up inside with it laying on it's side. As it expands from warming, that should force lube out of a leaky seal. That might help locate the problem. It's also possible that it's nothing more than residual lube that collected after filling. It's a messy job no matter how careful or quick you are.

 

[AaronG]

Re: Lower Unit Leaking

I thought it was strange too. The guy who told me to keep it upright was the same guy who did the work. Its a small independent shop that I've used in the past and been happy with. I hope its just residual oil from when he put it all back together. It was leaking out a small vent type hole below the water pickup. Anyone know where that hole goes? The prop shaft seal (which was leaking origionally) is now dry as a bone. <br /><br />I'm going to have to learn how to do this myself. I hate taking stuff to people to get fixed. <br /><br />Good thing I found the service manual on ebay last fall. Next time it leaks, I'm going to try it myself.